How many returns does a pool need

[mas985]

Reducing the number of returns does not make your pump work harder. In fact it is the opposite. Pumps draw less power with higher head loss so work less.

There is no requirement for the number of returns except you need at least one.

[PoolDoc]

. . . membership upgraded.

[CarlD]

I have only 1 return myself and it's fine (Technically, I have 2 more for the solar panels but they are low-pressure, not full pressure as the main one is)

[Shredhead]

I have a modified Kidney shaped pool with four returns, five if you count the Polaris and two skimmers. My builder said I needed that many to properly stir the pool so that the skimmers would work.